SteelKiwi
About the Company
Steelkiwi began as a Python/Django web development agency in Odessa and Vinnitsa, Ukraine. Within a year, it added a mobile app development department, enabling it to create native Android and iOS applications. Over the years, Steelkiwi expanded its offerings to include graphic design, quality assurance, business analysis, project management, and marketing services. By 2021, it had grown to over 80 employees and worked with businesses across various industries, including healthcare, education, real estate, and more.
Co-founders Viacheslav and Anton divided responsibilities to focus on their strengths. Viacheslav managed non-technical operations, such as sales, marketing, and project management, while Anton handled the technical aspects. Their collaborative approach allowed Steelkiwi to offer comprehensive digital solutions tailored to client needs. Despite its growth, the company maintained its core value of delivering high-quality products efficiently.
In 2022, Steelkiwi concluded its journey as an independent business when it was acquired by Globaldev Group. The acquisition marked the end of a decade-long effort to establish itself as a reputable outsourcing company in the software development industry.
Idea Behind Company
The idea for Steelkiwi originated in 2011 when Viacheslav and Anton met through mutual friends and discussed their professional aspirations. At the time, Viacheslav worked in project management, and Anton was a Python/Django developer. Both felt that the software development market was ripe for change, particularly with Python emerging as a robust alternative to PHP for web development.
They envisioned a company that combined Anton's technical expertise with Viacheslav’s management skills to deliver efficient, high-quality products. Investing their personal savings, they set out to build a business that would differentiate itself by offering both technical experience and market knowledge. Their approach quickly attracted clients who appreciated the consultative style of their services.
Steelkiwi’s early success was driven by its ability to adapt to various industries and focus on delivering tailored solutions. The founders emphasized the importance of understanding client needs, a philosophy that remained central to the company’s operations throughout its history.
Creating the Company
Steelkiwi’s journey began on platforms like oDesk, Elance, and Freelancer, where the founders connected with small and medium-sized businesses. Their first projects were modest, with budgets around $1,000, but they used these opportunities to establish a reputation for reliability and quality. They also adopted a consultative approach, helping clients with business ideas and marketing strategies in addition to software development.
One of Steelkiwi’s early decisions was to offer both out-staffing and project-based engagement models. This flexibility allowed the company to cater to diverse client needs while building long-term relationships. The founders also prioritized reinvesting profits into the business, which helped them scale operations without overextending financially.
Over time, Steelkiwi expanded its team and services to meet the demands of a growing client base. The founders’ focus on internal process improvement and client feedback ensured that the company consistently delivered high-quality results.
Launching the Business
Steelkiwi transitioned from a part-time project to a full-time business as its client base grew. The founders’ initial responsibilities were split between project management and technical development, but the increasing workload necessitated hiring employees and establishing an office. This marked the beginning of Steelkiwi’s transformation into a fully-fledged outsourcing company.
From the start, Viacheslav and Anton envisioned themselves in managerial roles, overseeing the company’s operations while delegating implementation tasks to their team. This strategy proved effective, allowing them to focus on scaling the business and maintaining quality standards. They also emphasized the importance of balancing differences in their management styles, which ultimately strengthened their partnership.
Steelkiwi’s launch strategy included building credibility through reliable service delivery and fostering long-term client relationships. The founders’ dedication to understanding client needs and providing tailored solutions helped establish a strong foundation for growth.
Earnings
At its peak, Steelkiwi generated $150,000 in monthly revenue and employed over 80 people. This financial success was the result of careful planning, strategic reinvestment, and a commitment to quality. The company’s emphasis on understanding client needs and offering consultative services contributed to its profitability.
Even during challenging periods, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Steelkiwi adapted its strategies to maintain stability. The founders invested in lead generation and implemented emergency plans to retain employees and keep the business afloat. Their resilience demonstrated the importance of flexibility and proactive decision-making.
The acquisition by Globaldev Group in 2022 marked the end of Steelkiwi’s independent operations. However, its decade-long success story remains a testament to the founders’ vision, teamwork, and dedication to delivering exceptional results.
